In the informed consent process, the nurse's role is to advocate for the patient while the provider supplies treatment information.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only in emergencies
• D. Only when the patient is a minor

Answer: (A)

The central idea in informed consent is that it’s a collaborative process focused on the patient’s autonomy. The provider is responsible for giving treatment information—what options exist, the risks and benefits, and possible alternatives—so the patient can make an informed choice. The nurse acts as the patient’s advocate, helping ensure that information is understood, questions are answered, and the patient has the opportunity to think through what aligns with their values and preferences. This includes translating medical terms into plain language, identifying barriers to understanding such as language or health literacy, and confirming that the decision is voluntary and free from coercion. The nurse may also assess decisional capacity and, when needed, involve surrogates in accordance with the patient’s wishes and legal rules. This supportive, patient-centered role applies broadly, not only in emergencies or with minors.